I’ll let you in on a little secret: I rarely wear mini dresses. My dress collection is predominantly focused on long, flowing styles that hit around mid-calf or skim along the floor, but this year, that’s all changed.
Suddenly, I found myself adding a host of mini dress outfits to my outfit inspiration board, and now that I’m packing for my first sunny trip of the season, I began the search to bolster my mini dress collection. Quickly, I found one particular style with a French edge was holding my attention more than most: white embroidered mini dresses.
For summer 2026, my wardrobe intentions are clear. Every new addition has to have the perfect balance of timeless and fresh, wearable and breathable to take on the warmest days. Naturally, a pretty white embroidered mini dress fits right in. Each summer I find myself drawn back to fresh white palettes, whether paired with equally muted accessories or acting as the foundations for layering on bolder accents by way of silk scarves or vibrant handbags. Either way, the white dress has claimed its place as a sophisticated summer hero.
Whether you’re ready to invest in your summer wardrobe or looking for an expensive-looking high street buy, designers across price points are leaning into the embroidered mini dress return. Intricate details like embroidery and Broderie Anglaise are back for another summer, accenting our favourite blouses, flowing trousers, and now bringing a dainty finishing touch to our throw-on mini dresses. As I’ve already spotted so many stylish people wearing this precise dress trend, let’s get straight into the very best white embroidered mini dresses for summer 2026.
Shop the Best White Embroidered Mini Dresses for Summer 2026
Reformation
Daxton Dress
Reformation was the first place I checked for a sleek mini dress worthy of my next holiday.
H&M
Broderie Anglaise Flared-Skirt Dress
This halter neckline is such a refined touch.
DOEN
Patience Dress -- Salt
Dôen knows all about pretty dresses. Move fast, the best ones tend to sell out quickly.
ZIMMERMANN
Indra Embroidered Ramie Mini Dress
The dreamiest beach cover-up.
Rixo
Zayanna Embroidered Mini Dress
The scallop edges add to the sweet appeal of this dress.
STAUD
+da Adolfo Mariella Cotton-Blend Mini Dress
I'm relying on loose, throw-on styles on the hottest days.
Free People
Dream Haze Embroidered Nightie
Free People knows all about great dresses. I'm also stocking up on more pretty colourways.
SKALL STUDIO
Talia Embroidered Cotton Mini Dress
Just add smooth leather sandals and a spacious basket bag.
DÔEN
Almadia Crochet-Trimmed Ramie Mini Dress
I've tried this dress on and can confirm its even better in person.
Sezane
Mafeo Dress
Trust French brand Sézane to get this embroidered mini dress so right.
M&S
Pure Cotton Cutwork Mini Cami Dress
Marks & Spencer always gets it right.
MATTEAU
Scalloped Broderie Anglaise Cotton Mini Dress
You'll find this dress already in my basket.
H&M
Embroidered Flared-Skirt Dress
I told you H&M's collection is so strong this season.
Ganni
Dress in White Broderie Anglaise
The square neckline makes this dress extra sophisticated.
LOVESHACKFANCY
Zuri Embroidered Cotton Mini Dress
The shirred back panel ensures this dress fits neatly to your body.
M&S
Pure Cotton Lace Insert Mini Smock Dress
No one will believe this dress is from the high street.
Sezane
Helly Dress
The kind of dress you can wear to the office or on holiday.
Poupette St Barth
Livy Ruffled Cotton Minidress
I've fallen for so many of Poupette St Barth's pretty pieces.
Juliet Dunn
Embroidered Scalloped Cotton Minidress
The intricate embroidery and semi-sheer details are a work of art.
Minka Dink London
Delia Dress
Minka Dink is brand you need to know about.
Rixo
Inez Embroidered Cotton Minidress
I've finally found this dress in stock!
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As someone who wears SPF every single day, even in the depths of winter, I've long accepted that applying sunscreen is only half the battle. The real challenge? Remembering—and actually wanting—to reapply it. Sure, during the winter months when sunlight feels like a distant memory, that morning application will probably tide you over, but in the height of summer it really doesn’t cut it. Yet between commuting, running errands, school drop-offs and general day-to-day life, carrying a full-size sunscreen isn't always practical. Which is why I've become such a fan of SPF sticks.
Compact enough to slip into even the smallest handbag (unlike most SPF sprays), they make topping up your sun protection as effortless as it can be. A few quick swipes across the face and you're done—no messy hands, no spills and, with the best formulas, no greasy residue or white cast either. They've become my go-to for keeping my SPF topped up throughout the day, and I’ll happily scribble them onto the foreheads, shoulders and shins of anyone in my vicinity who needs a top-up.
I swear by CeraVe’s Invisible Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50+ for myself and my kids (so much so that we went through an entire bottle during the recent heatwave), so I had high hopes for the matching sun stick. I love this because it has a balmy texture that glides effortlessly onto the skin without dragging, and it’s enriched with ceramides and hyaluronic acid so it feels hydrating on the skin without being greasy. It is quite a skinny stick, so it’s particularly brilliant at applying to lips, around the eyes and nose where I often catch the sun, and even along my hairline, and it takes up barely any space in my handbag. Plus, the bright yellow packaging makes it easy to spot, which is always a win when you’re already feeling a bit frazzled in the heat.
Dry, dehydrated or mature skin types will love this SPF stick, which feels more like skincare than a traditional sunscreen. Infused with a serum of moisturising castor oil, antioxidant-rich sunflower seed extract and soothing rosemary leaf, it melts into the skin to leave behind a healthy glow. Plus, it has the most beautiful tropical scent—think sweet coconuts and heady tiare flowers—so it feels like a sensorial experience rather than a chore. And, of course, there's SPF 50 to ensure you're protected from the sun. If you prefer a really matte finish, then you won't love this, but it's perfect if you want to top up your sunscreen whilst adding luminosity to the skin.
Pros
Luxurious skincare-inspired texture
Smells amazing
Cons
The dewy finish won't suit really oily skin types
3. La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVSPORT Pro-Resistance Stick SPF50+
This is the SPF stick to throw in your back pocket if you're heading out for a run, a long walk or if (like me) you spend a lot of time outdoors during the summer running around after your kids and working up a sweat. It's clearly designed with movement in mind and stays put impressively well, even when I'm warm and the upper lip sweat is real. The formula grips the skin without feeling sticky, though its staying power means it isn't the most hydrating on the list. It's particularly good on high-exposure areas like ears, nose and cheekbones where I often find that my sunscreen can disappear fast. It's practical rather than pampering, but that's exactly what I want from an SPF designed for active days
Pros
Sweat- and water-resistant
Ideal for sport and outdoor activities
Cons
The finish feels slightly firmer than other more everyday options
Typically I'm a bit of a purist when it comes to sunscreen—I just want to know that my skin is protected—but even I can't resist an SPF that is basically glass skin in stick format. This stuff has a dry oil feel that glides onto skin and leaves behind the most beautifully glossy finish that looks incredible when it catches the light. Of course, for touch-ups this is best applied all over, but doubling up on cheekbones and the bridge of the nose almost gives the skin a highlighted effect. Despite the shine, it doesn't feel sticky or heavy, and I love how quick it is to swipe on throughout the day. It would be particularly lovely on holiday when you want your skin to look healthy and luminous without layering on makeup, but if you prefer matte finishes or you're particularly oily, then you might find the dewiness a bit much.
This feels like a modern multi-tasker rather than just another sunscreen. Alongside broad-spectrum SPF, this stick is packed with ingredients aimed at protecting skin from environmental aggressors, making it the one I'd keep in my handbag for commuting and busy days in London. It's enriched with ceramides, vitamin E and botanical oils for a silky texture with surprising longevity. Plus, it's infused with cucumber and mint, which gives it a really refreshing feel that's perfect if, like me, you tend to get hot, bothered and slightly red in the face when trying to carry out everyday tasks in soaring temperatures.
Pros
Lightweight, non-greasy formula
Feels cooling on the skin
Cons
More expensive price point
6. Caudalie Invisible High Protection Stick SPF 50
I'm often out and about with two young children, which means an SPF stick that works for the entire family is a brilliant space-saver for me. This one from Caudalie is fragrance-free, water-resistant and suitable for use on children and babies—or anyone with very sensitive skin. I love that it glides on with absolutely no hint of white cast (something my children fuss profusely about), which means there is no mess or chalky residue either. It sinks in fast with very little blending required and simply gets the job done, ensuring that even the littlest ears and noses are covered. My only gripe? I'd actually love it to come in larger stick format for the body too.
Beauty of Joseon's Relief Sun SPFs have something of a cult following, but it's the mattifying sunscreen stick that I rate most highly from its sun protection range. Unlike many SPF sticks, it leaves behind a genuinely soft, velvety finish that helps reduce shine rather than adding to it. I especially like using it over makeup because not only does it protect my skin from the sun, but it actually refreshes my complexion too—almost acting like a blotting product and sunscreen in one. So if your biggest barrier to reapplying sunscreen throughout the day is the fear of looking shiny, then this is the stick to have on hand.
Pros
Keeps excess shine at bay
Works well over makeup
Cons
Dry skin won't love this one
8. Dr.Jart+ Every Sun Day Ultra-Sheer Priming Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
Every Sun Day Ultra-Sheer Priming Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
An SPF stick formulated with makeup wearers in mind, this sunscreen has a sheer formula that smooths over the skin much like a traditional primer. When applying it as the first step in your routine, it creates an almost balmy base for other products to adhere to, but when swiping over makeup, it adds an almost soft-focus finish with no disruption to the products beneath. I've been really impressed at how well it glides on without causing any pilling or patchiness, and the slippery feel really does make reapplication a breeze. If you are someone who wears a full face most days but wants to be diligent about sun protection, then I'd recommend this highly.
Pros
Smooth, blurring finish
Doesn't disrupt appearance of makeup
Cons
The texture is quite balmy and runs out quite fast
9. Soltan Active 8 Hour Protect Suncare Stick SPF50+
I have used Soltan sunscreen since my childhood and remain incredibly loyal to the brand for high-quality sun protection at affordable price points. This stick feels robust (ideal for toting around in your bag all day) and offers dependable SPF 50+ protection that is water-resistant for 3 hours. The texture is a little firmer and less slippery than some of the more premium options on the list, but it applies evenly and feels durable. It's the sort of stick I'd happily pack for weekend festivals or long beach days where I know that I'll want a practical formula that can be passed around.
Pros
Excellent value for money
Long-lasting protection
Cons
Texture doesn't feel as luxurious as some more premium options
The Benefits of Using an SPF Stick
“An SPF stick can be a useful addition to a sun care routine, particularly for targeted application and topping up protection throughout the day. The main benefit is convenience: it is compact, easy to carry, and can be applied directly to areas such as the lips, nose, cheekbones, ears and around the eyes without needing to use your hands,” explains Consultant Dermatologist Dr Derrick Phillips.
However, Dr Phillips points out that SPF sticks shouldn’t be seen as a total replacement for your usual sunscreen. “Creams, lotions and fluids tend to be easier to apply evenly over larger areas, whereas sticks are particularly useful for reapplication and for areas that are often missed,” he explains. They should be viewed as an addition to your sun protection routine while you’re out and about, rather than a full alternative.
How to Use SPF Sticks
The best thing about SPF sticks is that they are pretty mess-free—just twist them up and swipe them onto your skin. “You should apply an SPF stick generously, using several passes over each area rather than a single swipe. Focus on commonly missed areas such as the lips, nose, cheekbones, ears and hairline,” explains Dr Phillips. The key to their efficacy is to re-apply them every couple of hours when you’re out and about. “When applied generously and evenly, SPF sticks can be very effective and are particularly useful for maintaining protection throughout the day,” says Dr Phillips.
How We Tested
From glow-giving formulas and sensitive skin-friendly options to hardworking sticks designed for sport and everyday life, I tested a range of SPF sticks and rated them on how easily they applied to skin, their longevity, the practicality of the packaging and the price point.
Why Trust Us
At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.
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After two heatwaves (and one unexpected storm), it's fair to say that we're fully in the throes of summer. Our boots and jackets have been tucked to the back of the wardrobe in favour of flip flops and open shirts, but with practicality so important to getting summer style right, it can often mean that we end up relying on the same pieces time and time again.
Alexa Demie! Elsa Hosk! Dua Lipa! There are some women on my style mood board who always get it right, and never ones to follow trends, you can bet that they are the first to set them. What did we wear in the heatwave before It girls singlehandedly brought back capri trousers? And trainers? No thank you, sartorial A-listers are living in wedges and minimalist flats right now, not to mention Hailey Bieber's much discussed GAP denim collab suddenly convincing us we need to wear jeans in high summer too.
With so many events filling our social calendars and a good couple of months of soaring temperatures ahead, its time to up our game (with a little help from fashion's best dressed). So, whether you're a loyal minimalist, experimental maximalist (or fall somewhere in-between), these are the summer trends that deserve your full attention right now—as chosen by the most stylish women in the game.
10 It Girl High Summer Fashion Trends to Wear on Repeat in 2026
Style Notes: From babydoll dresses to ballet flats, Elsa Hosk's maternity wardrobe has been a lesson in warm weather dressing that we can all benefit from. The latest prairie-inspired piece to make its way into her regular rotation (and ours) is bib detailing—be it on blouses, dresses or overalls. There's something about the combination of a square collar, lace trim and side ties that feels fresh for this summer, and now that the high street has cottoned on too (excuse the pun), this pretty trend could be big enough to rival basic white tees this season.
Shop Aprons, Bibs and Pinafores:
Free People
Carina Apron Tank
I can't believe that this hasn't already sold out.
Plumo
Vintage Lace Dress
I already own this, and get so many compliments.
Free People
Sweetness Overall Set
Such a cute set.
2. Business Stripes
(Image credit: Backgrid)
Style Notes: Who said skinny stripes have to be the reserve of the boardroom? This summer "stuffy" stripey shirts feel significantly cooler when loosely unbuttoned and paired with shades and baggy trousers a la Laura Harrier. If you don't already have a crisp shirt in your wardrobe, now is a good time to invest in these transitional heroes that you can wear all year round. Sharp tailoring not your style? Clean stripes are across everything from shorts to sandals right now, so you can nod to the trend without any businessman connotations.
Shop Pinstripes:
With Nothing Underneath
The Classic: Fine Poplin, Royal Blue Stripe
A true wardrobe staple.
LOEWE
Striped Pleated Cotton-Poplin Shorts
Just add a loose tee and sandals.
FAITHFULL
Striped Jersey Polo Shirt
When it's too warm to wear with jeans, tie this around your shoulders.
Style Notes: It goes without saying that a basket bag is the style of the summer, every summer, but this year we've noticed the style set doubling up on all things woven and finishing their 'fits with raffia hats too. Cowboy hats, buckets, supersized, floppy sun hats—it doesn't matter the shape as long as your hat channels the artisanal quality that makes it look like it was handmade in the old town of your favourite holiday destination. Take notes from Emily Ratajkowski and team yours with swimwear and a sarong on the beach, and throw on oversized shirt over the top for the boardwalk.
Shop Raffia Hats:
BASK AND GROOVE
Bucket Bohemia Natural
Whether you're reclining on a yacht or weekend shopping, this is the perfect finishing touch for your warm weather outfits.
BOUTIQUE BONITA
Luxe Raffia Cowboy Hat
This is all you need to make your swimwear feel that much cooler.
Style Notes: When its too hot for sleeves (let alone fussy straps), it's time to introduce a bandeau into your rotation. Whether it's a jersey top or an evening-ready dress, these pull-on-and-go wonders are a crease-proof, tan-line-safe swap that make the most of the high temperatures. After all, when else in the year can you get away with such bare arms? Keep accessories to a minimum like Maya Jama's Jean Paul Gaultier look to let your sunkissed skin be the star of the show.
Shop Bandeaus:
ZARA
Bandeau Midi Dress
No one will believe that this isn't designer.
House of Dagmar
Sculpted Tube Top
I love everything about this look for a dressy, summer evening.
Style Notes: After last year's Pucci summer brought back psychedelic prints and silk scarves, this year's prarie girl swaps her 60's satin for classic bandanas and cutesy lace trims that pair perfectly with nightgown cottons and cropped, capri trousers. Kendall Jenner's off-duty look shows just how much a bandana can elevate even the most basic long sleeved tee, so on the days when you're in a rush (and don't have time to do your hair), a head scarf is the quick and easy styling hack that always looks like you've made an effort.
Shop Bandanas and Head Scarves:
Chloé
Printed Silk Jacquard Scarf
Just look at that pretty lace trim.
Ferragamo
Arabesque Print Bandana
Perfectly paired with a white top and blue denim.
AllSaints
Fleur Cotton Bandana
How to go from "wearing" vs "styling" in one easy step.
Style Notes: The summer of sport just wouldn't be complete without a little bit of "go team!" energy, and even if the World Cup, Wimbledon, F1 and Rugby Nations Championship aren't high on your agenda, fan-coded fashion is still very much in. Lightweight jerseys and tees are the natural evolution of spring's most discussed top trend, the raglan, so even if you don't make it to a stadium you can throw together this cool-girl look with just a pair of shorts and a flip flop.
Shop Sports Tees:
ACNE STUDIOS
Exfold Printed Cotton-Jersey Sweater
Just the right amount of distressed to look vintage.
Conner Ives
The Reconstituted Shirred Football Top
The pinnacle of cool right now.
Cou Cou Intimates
The Raglan: Grey / Navy Cotton Jersey
Sports adjacent for those who like to keep it minimal
Style Notes: There's no escaping the fact that the divisive jelly shoe has dominated footwear for the last year, and after evolving from classic flats to heeled princess shoes, they are also taking up the "ugly shoe" mantel and aqua shoes are now trending too. Alexa's beach shoes might have been a practical choice first and foremost, but they are a reminder of just how far see-through shoes have come over the last year, and as they show no signs of slowing down, now is the perfect time to try a pair of the most talked about shoes in the world right now.
Free People
Melissa Ultragirl Futura Flats
Surprisingly comfortable.
Jimmy Choo
The Jelly
Add a little bit of sparkle to your step.
COS
Jelly Fisherman Sandals
Such a good find in the sale!
8. Visor Sunglasses
(Image credit: @dualipa)
Style Notes: We've been treated to a wealth of sunglasses trends this year, but if you're looking for a pair with real staying power in 2026, bigger is definitely better. Whether they're the fashion forward choice or simply just the best for dodging paparazzi, It girls everywhere have been sporting supersized visor styles like Dua Lipa, and making shades the focal point of the outfit rather than just the finishing touch.
Shop Supersized Sunglasses:
LOEWE
Speed Shield-Frame Metal Sunglasses
Now these are statement sunnies.
OAKLEY
Ow8001 Rectangle Meta Ai Acetate Sunglasses
Sportcore, eat your heart out.
PRADA
Pr C05s Irregular-Frame Acetate Sunglasses
These are guaranteed to invite compliments.
9. Knee Skirts
(Image credit: Backgrid)
Style Notes: By now knee skirts will be all over your radar, as the Prada and Miu Miu effect is impossible to ignore. Maxi skirts are a reoccurring staple and micro minis had their moment a couple of years ago, but the ladylike knee-length skirt works for everybody, including fashion women who subvert the demure energy by opting for bold styles and prints, and pairing them with everything from band tees to sculptural shoes. Alexa Demie is a prime example of a new gen style icon who knows how to mix aesthetics, and this white tank + knee skirt + peep toe combination is a fresh take on a classic skirt, and a reminder of just how easy to style up these versatile skirts are.
Style Notes: Given just how popular the simple flip flop has been this summer, it makes sense that one of the biggest jewellery trends to come out of the season has been decorating ones feet. Toe rings! Anklets! However you can personalise your look to the smallest detail, take the opportunity. Everyone from Leandra Cohen to Jennifer Lawrence have been spotted sporting toe bling over the last 6 months, and after Rihanna's elegantly draped Briony Raymond diamond anklet caused a stir in January, it was official. The nineties called, and foot jewellery is back with a vengance.
Shop Jewellery:
Missoma
Beaded Gemstone & Pearl Anklet
Yes, Missoma really does make anklets this pretty.
Daisy London
Polly Crystal Knot Toe Ring
Good enough to want to wear on your fingers.
The Diamond Store
The Anklet - 1.00ct Round Cut Lab Diamond in Sterling Silver
Simply stunning.
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